Georgia Dog Poop Laws by County
Living in Georgia with a dog brings plenty of joy—but it also brings responsibility, especially when it comes to cleaning up after your pet. Many dog owners are surprised to learn that dog poop laws vary across counties in Georgia. Whether you’re in Atlanta or a small town, understanding the local regulations can save you from fines and frustration.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through Georgia dog poop laws by county so you can stay compliant and keep your community clean.
Why Dog Poop Laws Exist in Georgia
Dog waste is more than a nuisance—it’s a health risk. It carries harmful bacteria and parasites, contaminates water sources, and creates foul-smelling environments. That’s why most Georgia counties enforce pet waste ordinances, especially in public spaces.
While there’s no statewide dog poop law in Georgia, local governments have taken the lead in crafting their own regulations. Let’s explore those county by county.
Do Georgia Counties Have Uniform Laws?
No, dog poop laws are not uniform across Georgia. Each county and city may have its own ordinance regarding pet waste. Some impose specific fines, while others focus more on public awareness and voluntary compliance. In almost every case, though, you’re expected to clean up after your dog.
Dog Poop Laws in Major Georgia Counties
Fulton County (Atlanta)
Yes, dog owners must clean up after their pets in Fulton County. Atlanta city ordinances under Section 110-70 require immediate removal of dog feces from public property or private property not owned by the dog owner. Failure to comply can result in a fine starting at $150.
- Ordinances apply in parks, sidewalks, and neighborhoods
- Pet waste stations are available in most public dog parks
- Bag dispensers are often maintained by the city or HOAs
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DeKalb County
DeKalb County enforces pet sanitation laws through city ordinances. Cities like Decatur and Stone Mountain require dog owners to pick up pet waste immediately and dispose of it in a sanitary manner. Violators can be fined up to $250 for repeated offenses.
In parks like Mason Mill or Glenlake, compliance is actively monitored.
Cobb County
Cobb County follows similar rules as its neighboring metro areas. Local ordinances require owners to carry a means of waste removal and clean up after their dogs immediately. The fine for noncompliance is usually around $100 for a first offense.
The county promotes responsible pet ownership through public awareness campaigns and signage in parks and neighborhoods.
Gwinnett County
Pet owners must pick up waste or risk being fined. Gwinnett County includes dog poop regulations in its property maintenance codes and animal control guidelines. Public spaces like Tribble Mill Park and Rabbit Hill Park have disposal stations, and repeat offenders can face escalating fines.
Planning to better care for your pup as they grow older? Check your dog’s real age here and adjust care accordingly.
Chatham County (Savannah)
Savannah’s ordinances require pet waste removal on all public and private property not owned by the dog’s guardian. Section 4-100 of the city code includes clear language about sanitation and waste disposal. Fines for noncompliance start at $50 and increase with repeated violations.
Other Notable Georgia Counties and Their Dog Waste Rules
| County | Waste Law | Fine Range |
|---|---|---|
| Clarke (Athens) | City ordinances require immediate cleanup | $50 to $200 |
| Richmond (Augusta) | Pet owners must remove waste from all public spaces | Starts at $75 |
| Lowndes (Valdosta) | No specific county-wide rule, but city codes apply | $25 to $100 |
| Hall (Gainesville) | Pet waste regulations enforced in city parks | Warning, then $50+ |
How Georgia Counties Enforce These Laws
Enforcement varies based on location and resources. Larger counties typically have dedicated animal control officers or park rangers. In smaller areas, enforcement may rely more on resident complaints and HOA oversight.
Here’s how they do it:
- Anonymous complaints to local animal services
- Monitoring by park rangers or city sanitation teams
- Use of neighborhood watch programs or HOA rules
Many areas encourage citizens to report violations through apps or hotlines.
Tips for Staying Out of Trouble
Follow these best practices to avoid fines and stay in your neighbors’ good graces:
- Carry doggy waste bags at all times—keep them in your car, leash handle, or pocket
- Use public disposal stations—they’re common in Georgia’s public parks
- Educate your family and dog walkers—everyone who walks your dog should know the rules
- Know your city’s rules—especially if you travel across county lines with your dog
Not sure how your dog’s age affects its care needs? Try this quick dog age checker to get instant insights.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes—but they’re rare. Service dogs may be exempt from fines in specific circumstances, especially if the handler has a disability that makes waste removal difficult. Still, most service dog owners clean up after their animals voluntarily.
Certain wilderness trails and rural areas may lack formal rules, but responsible pet ownership is always expected.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Noncompliance can result in fines, citations, and even legal action. Some cities treat it as a civil offense, while others may issue misdemeanor citations for repeat violations. In HOA communities, it could lead to added fees or restrictions on common area usage.
Conclusion
Georgia dog poop laws may differ from county to county, but one thing is consistent: you’re expected to clean up after your dog. Whether you’re in bustling Atlanta or quiet Valdosta, being a responsible dog owner means respecting public spaces and your community.
Want to take the next step in being the best dog parent possible? Calculate your dog’s age here to better understand their behavior and health needs. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly helpful.